Human-assisted movements of Raccoons, Procyon lotor, and Opossums, Didelphis virginiana, between the United States and Canada

Abstract

Movements of Raccoons (Procyon lotor) (x- = 479 km) and Opossums (Didelphis virginiana) (x- = 688 km) by means of transport trailers and a train from the USA and Quebec into Ontario were significantly greater than Raccoon movements (x- = 15 km) from Ontario to New York State determined by mark-recapture. Human-assisted movements of wildlife could have significant impacts with respect to cross-border movements of diseases such as rabies. Proactive communication programs, especially at International border crossing areas, should be encouraged to decrease the occurrence of the unintentional movement of wildlife and associated diseases.